This interesting Gesneriad was found growing on bare limestone hills of S Thailand. You can see that in nature, the dead leaves are left wrapped at the base of the plant.
On several occasions when I failed to water the plant, the leaves withered totally to the brown colour of the dried leaves seen above. Upon dunking it in water several times, the plant miraculously revived - with the same brown leaves turning green once more. 
the bloom appeared to be typically Paraboea but it has yet to set seed naturally so far, which would verify its standing.
The leaves are hirsute on both sides, with brown hairs at the leaf edges, venations and petioles.
I am guessing its some kind of Paraboea but its specific name remain to be identified. Any suggestions are much welcome.
Sunday, September 26, 2010
Unusual resurrection plant
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6 comments:
How the plant clings to the limestone shows clearly how well a drainage it needs. I think that is why many Gesneriads do not survive in the home as they are usually kept to wet and probably the soil to acid.
the flower looks like an African violet, probably much smaller. It is lovely. It is fantastic to see the plants in their natural environment.
What an amazing plant, and by cultivating it, we learn so much more.
yes the flowers do look like AVs but the branching is different and the seed pod is supposed to be twisting....and yes you are right too in that it requires dry-off between waterings.
Many limestone Gesneriads have fuzzy leaves and seasonal dormancy - Sinningia leucotricha being a good example.
What a perfect plant......I love it!! reli want to grow one
Really wonderful. They are representing the "newness of life".
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